Cordylanthus

/ˌkɔːrdɪˈlænθəs/ noun

Definition

A genus of plants in the figwort family, often parasitic on other plants, characterized by cord-like or flame-colored flowers.

Etymology

From Greek cordyl- (cord-like, from cordis) and -anthus (flower). The botanical name describes the distinctive cord-like or thread-like appearance of the flower structures in these plants.

Kelly Says

Cordylanthus plants are botanical parasites that steal nutrients from their host plants but produce some of the most delicate, thread-like flowers in the desert—proving that even parasites can be devastatingly beautiful.

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